Nicosia: The Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the EU is being heralded as a significant opportunity for strengthening the defence industries of Greece and Cyprus. This was the sentiment expressed by the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, during his meeting with the Greek Minister of National Defence, Nikos Dendias, at the Presidential Palace on Monday.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the President welcomed Dendias by emphasizing the long-standing friendship and cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted the importance of Dendias’ visit, especially in light of regional developments and EU programs like SAFE, which could enhance collaborative efforts. Christodoulides pointed out that the upcoming Cyprus’ Presidency of the EU, set to begin in less than 50 days, is an opportune moment to elevate the defence sectors of both countries and demonstrate their capabilities.
The President stressed the necessity of advancing defence and security agendas for Cyprus and Greece, considering the ongoing Turkish occupation and regional provocations, as well as the significant geostrategic position of Cyprus.
Nikos Dendias, on his part, expressed his enthusiasm for further deepening defence cooperation with his Cypriot counterpart, Vassilis Palmas. He remarked on the potential of the Cypriot Presidency to serve as a “tremendous opportunity” for enhancing bilateral relations, particularly within the defence industry and ecosystem.
The backdrop to these discussions is the ongoing division of Cyprus, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of the northern part of the island in 1974. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution remains elusive, with the last negotiations in 2017 at Crans-Montana ending without agreement.